Redescription of Nezumia infranudis (Gilbert & Hubbs, 1920), with the first record of the species from the Eastern Indian Ocean (Actinopterygii: Gadiformes: Macrouridae)

Marine Biology Research, 11(10):1108-1115.

Abstract

Nezumia infranudis is redescribed from the holotype and an additional specimen collected from the Timor Sea at a depth of 610-690 m. It belongs to the Nezumia spinosa group (herein defined) and is most similar to the Indo-West Pacific N. spinosa. Nezumia infranudis is distinguished from other congeners by the following combination of features: pelvic-fin rays 11; body scales covered with long, reclined, needle-like spinules densely scattered over exposed portion; underside of head almost completely naked, with prominent sensory pores; teeth in broad bands in both jaws; snout long (31-32\% of head length (HL)), protruding well beyond upper jaw; second spinous ray of first dorsal fin greatly elongated (height of first dorsal fin 158-166\% HL); no prominent dark band encircling trunk; first dorsal fin almost uniformly blackish. The first report of N. infranudis in the Indian Ocean represents the only confirmed record of the species since its original description. A key to species of the N. spinosa group is provided.